Pakistan to Host Champions Trophy Without India for First Time

The 2025 Champions Trophy is set to take place in Pakistan, with eight teams competing in the tournament from February 19 to March 9. However, plans have been disrupted by reports that India will refuse to travel to play in their neighbouring country.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) had initially planned for a traditional tournament format, where teams would compete across multiple cities in Pakistan. However, with the Indian team refusing to participate, Pakistan has now come forward as a single host country.

Pakistan has selected Rawalpindi, Karachi, and Lahore as its three host cities, with an initial schedule draft leaving India playing all their group games at one venue. The PCB has now sought advice from its government regarding the situation, while the BCCI has informed the ICC that India will not be traveling to Pakistan, citing lack of government permission.

India's refusal to play in Pakistan raises concerns about the financial impact on the tournament, which could result in a loss for the ICC. With Australia and West Indies previously opting out of playing matches in Sri Lanka due to safety concerns, it is unclear if the ICC will proceed with the tournament without India.

The "hybrid model" of competing across multiple countries has been suggested as an alternative, with the United Arab Emirates potentially being considered. However, Pakistan's chairman has stated that no discussions have taken place regarding a shared hosting model, and he is not willing to accept it.

This marks the first time in history that Pakistan will host a major international cricket tournament without its neighbour India participating. Talks are ongoing between the ICC and countries involved to resolve the situation, with the deadline for finalizing plans fast approaching.